Rush #2

Your task in rush 2 is to consider how sound is functioning in the opening sequence in relation to the film's staging of "homecoming" (a form of narrative which we've now begun to trace from the poetry of Homer to the films of Eisenstein and Ford). Don't worry so much about dialogue. Focus more on the music and the voice on the radio at the end of the segment (and in doing so, try utilizing the conceptual distinction between diegetic and non-diegetic).  

I fear my response to this is not going to suffice, as I essentially have very little idea how the intro relates to "homecoming" and I also barely remember World War I history and I'm not sure where this intro is taking place geographically which I imagine is important. But, I am going to brainstorm here and hopefully come up with something. This film was easier for me to follow than the last, but it was still extremely slow. I understand that it's a classic and groundbreaking for it's time, but I was struggling. 

As far as diagesis, all of the tribal music and chanting was within the film, and being experienced by the characters. It is only of the only times in the film, other than the last 20 minutes, when land is even referenced. I believe that is how it relates to "homecoming". As the characters experience sounds and sights from the shore, they are reminded of their homes on land. The radio heard at the end is the a swift departure from the melancholy experienced by the men on board as the voice delivers news of prisoners. 

Rush #1

Your rush assignment for this week is to answer the following questions. Use whatever format you like (a paragraph, a sentence or two in response to each question, etc.). 

1. What are you focusing on here at Cornish? (What's your major and/or track? Are you currently undertaking any special projects--e.g. BFA project, senior thesis, etc.?)
• My major is Art. I am a transfer student, and just barely still qualify as a freshman. I don't know what my focus is yet but I anticipate that it will be video and/or painting. 

1. What's going on in your life outside of Cornish? Nothing much (because of full time study)? Creative activities beyond your Cornish work? Job(s)? Family life?  No need to tell me anything here that you're not comfortable sharing.  (Just skip this question if you're not comfortable with it.)

• As one of the older students at Cornish, I have a pretty well established life outside of my studies. I am a full time student, but I have a part time job at a gym called Denali Fitness as the front desk staff. As far as creative activities, I accept drawing commissions occasionally. I live with my sister in an apartment in West Seattle and I spend most of my spare time reading, watching movies, TV or hanging out with family and friends.

1. What's your background with film? Are you an avid viewer? (If so, all kinds of film, or just certain genres?) Have you helped make any film or video (or you hope to be involved in this in the future?) Have you taken other courses in film and/or film history?  (It's perfectly OK if you don't have any particular investment in film at this point.)
• I LOVE MOVIES. I spend a tong of time watching them. I try to make sure I watch the major films that everyone is talking about, but for the most part I am drawn to dark, character driven, independent films. Also, documentaries, thrillers, unconventional stories. Basically, anything that will make me question my own reality and way of viewing the world; even if just for the duration of the film. I consider myself a movie buff. I was raised going to the theater and I consider it one of the ultimate joys of life. I don't have any background in the creation of film, but I do have an itch for it. 

1. Any hopes are goals for this course? (Specific films, techniques, or concepts you're hoping we'll deal with, for instance)?  It's OK if you don't have any particular aspirations. (Maybe this course simply fit your schedule--that's fine!)

• I'm just excited to be more educated in the way I interpret and experience a film. I have to admit that the first film we watched has kind of scared me for what is coming next. I had a really hard time becoming invested or interested in the characters or the plot of Alexander Nevsky. I'd love to approach any of the Star Wars films since I have never seen them (I know - blasphemy!), but I am also curious if films like Ben Hur, Legends of the Fall or The Godfather (not sure if it qualifies) will be discussed or viewed. Looking forward to hopefully enjoying some of the films we watch and the way we talk about them.